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Completed in 2004, the study into the effects of 10% and 20% ethanol
blended fuel was a major project spanning 20months. Orbital made
use of its extensive engine and vehicle test facilities to perform
a comprehensive test program on a range of engines and vehicles
to determine the short and long term effects of varying levels of
ethanol content in the fuel. The test matrix included five automotive
passenger vehicle models and two non-automotive 2-stroke products
- an outboard marine engine and a handheld line-trimmer.
Objectives:
- Provide independent testing into the effects
of ethanol
- Accumulate significant mileage on a number
of vehicles under scientifically controlled environments
- Maintain strict confidentiality during the
20month project
Milestones:
- On-time, on-budget project delivery
- 740,000kms accumulated using robot-driver
mileage accumulation chassis dynamometers
- 2000hr material compatibility trials
Experience:
- Environmental facilities used in the comparative
drivability assessment of five different vehicle models
- Accelerated durability assessment of marine
and utility engines in accordance to manufacturers' standards
- Base engine wear assessment on a diverse
range of 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines
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